AUDLEY End Station is soon to have step-free access for passengers. Network Rail has announced that it is managing and delivering the improvements, which will be paid for by the Department for Transport s �370 million Access for All fund. Construction w

AUDLEY End Station is soon to have step-free access for passengers.

Network Rail has announced that it is managing and delivering the improvements, which will be paid for by the Department for Transport's �370 million 'Access for All' fund.

Construction work - which begins this month - will involve the installation of a new footbridge with two new lifts and stairs to provide step-free access between the station entrance and platforms.

In addition to the lifts, which will include CCTV and telephone links, the station platforms will be resurfaced and fitted with tactile paving.

Network Rail route director, Patrick Hallgate, said: "When completed in spring 2010, these new facilities will make station and platform access much easier for all passengers, including people with disabilities, those carrying heavy luggage and parents with prams.

"We're pleased that the funding has now been put in place to carry out these station improvements and we look forward to completing this work with the minimum of disruption to passengers."

Head of customer services west at National Express East Anglia, Paul Barnfield, hailed it as "good news" for customers who use the station.

"By working with industry partners to improve access and increase the convenience of travelling by train, I hope more people will be encouraged to choose rail travel as their preferred mode of transport," he said.